Dry Eye

Do you find yourself rubbing your eyes throughout the day or struggling with blurry, uncomfortable vision? Dry eye is a common issue that can affect people of all ages, often making everyday tasks like reading, working, or driving more difficult. At Coastal VisionCare, we help our patients identify and treat the root causes of dry eye, so you can enjoy lasting relief and clearer vision.

What is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the quality of your tears isn’t sufficient to keep the surface of your eyes comfortably lubricated. This can lead to discomfort, blurred vision, and even damage to the eye’s surface if left untreated.

Common Causes of Dry Eye

Several factors can contribute to dry eye, including:

• Aging: Tear production naturally decreases with age, making dry eye more common among older adults.

• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): When the glands in your eyelids don’t produce enough oil, your tears evaporate too quickly.

• Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelids can disrupt normal tear production and quality.

• Eye Surgery: Procedures such as LASIK or cataract surgery can temporarily or permanently affect tear production.

• Contact Lens Use: Wearing contact lenses, especially for extended periods, can increase your risk of dry eye.

• Allergies: Environmental allergens can trigger inflammation and disrupt the tear film.

• Medications: Certain medications, including antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure drugs, can reduce tear production.

• Medical Conditions: Autoimmune diseases (like Sjögren’s syndrome), diabetes, and thyroid disorders are often linked to dry eye.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Dry eye symptoms can vary from mild to severe and may include:

• A burning, stinging, or gritty sensation in the eyes

• Redness and irritation

• Blurred vision

• Excessive tearing

• Sensitivity to light

• Difficulty wearing contact lenses

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek a professional evaluation.

Identifying the Root Cause

Proper diagnosis is key to effective dry eye management. Dr. Harris and the team perform a comprehensive evaluation to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms. During your exam, we assess tear volume and quality, the function of the meibomian glands, the health of your eyelids and ocular surface, and check for any signs of inflammation or infection. We also review your medical and medication history. This detailed approach allows us to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.

Treatment Options for Dry Eye

Dry eye treatment is most effective when it targets the underlying cause. We offer a range of solutions, including:

• Eyelid Hygiene: Gentle cleansing routines to treat blepharitis and improve gland function.

• Artificial Tears: Lubricating eye drops that help supplement your natural tears.

• Prescription Eye Drops: Medications can reduce inflammation and boost tear production.

• Nutritional Supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids and other supplements may support healthy tear production.

• Contact Lens Choices: Switching to daily disposable or silicone hydrogel lenses can enhance comfort for contact lens wearers with dry eye.

• Punctal Plugs: Tiny devices inserted into the tear ducts to help retain moisture on the eye’s surface.

At Coastal VisionCare, we understand that dry eye can impact your daily life. Our team is dedicated to providing expert care, personalized treatment plans, and the latest in dry eye technology for patients throughout Palm Bay and the surrounding communities.

If you’re struggling with dry, irritated eyes, schedule a dry eye evaluation today and discover a customized treatment plan that addresses the root cause of your symptoms.